NH jury acquits consultant behind AI robocalls mimicking Biden on all charges
a year ago
- #AI
- #Robocalls
- #Elections
- Steven Kramer, a political consultant, was acquitted of voter suppression and impersonating a candidate charges related to AI-generated robocalls mimicking Joe Biden.
- The robocalls, sent to New Hampshire Democrats before the 2024 primary, used an AI-generated voice similar to Biden's and discouraged voting in the primary.
- Kramer testified that his intention was to highlight the dangers of AI in elections, paying a magician $150 to create the recording.
- Prosecutors argued the calls undermined the primary's integrity, while Kramer's defense claimed the primary was unsanctioned and the voter suppression law didn't apply.
- Jurors acquitted Kramer of all 22 charges, which could have resulted in decades in prison.
- Kramer also faces a $6 million FCC fine but refuses to pay; Lingo Telecom, which transmitted the calls, agreed to a $1 million settlement.
- The case highlights ongoing challenges in regulating AI in elections, with some states enacting laws while federal efforts remain uncertain.